Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength topical retinoid gel by Taro Pharmaceuticals featuring 0.1% Adapalene — a third-generation, photostable retinoid clinically proven to clear acne, unclog pores, and refine skin texture. This minimalist 8-ingredient, oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free formula is FDA-approved for over-the-counter use and is widely regarded as one of the most affordable and best-tolerated retinoids on the market.
Clears Acne at the Source
Targets blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory pimples by normalizing cell turnover deep within the pore.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClears Acne at the Source
Targets blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory pimples by normalizing cell turnover deep within the pore.
Prescription-Strength, OTC
The first retinoid approved by the FDA for over-the-counter sale (2016) — same molecule, no prescription required.
Best-Tolerated Retinoid
Studies consistently rank Adapalene as gentler than tretinoin and tazarotene, with less peeling and irritation.
Anti-Aging Bonus
Stimulates collagen and accelerates cell turnover — visibly smoothing texture, fine lines, and post-acne marks over time.
Photostable Molecule
Unlike tretinoin, Adapalene is stable in sunlight and air, meaning the product retains potency longer and degrades less on the skin.
Best-in-Class Value
One of the most affordable adapalene 0.1% gels on the market — clinically equivalent to brand-name Differin at a fraction of the cost.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot recommended. As a retinoid, Adapalene carries a theoretical risk of retinoid embryopathy and is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Discontinue if planning pregnancy.
No fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils. The 8-ingredient formula is completely safe for those battling fungal acne.
Oil-free aqueous gel base with a comedogenic rating of 0 — will not clog pores. Actively unclogs existing congestion.
Retinoids make skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory while using this product.
Do not layer with AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C in the same routine — combine on alternate nights to prevent irritation.
Expect dryness, mild peeling, redness, and possible breakouts in the first 2–6 weeks as cell turnover accelerates. This is normal and temporary.
Apply a small amount to the inner forearm or behind the ear for 48 hours before full-face use, especially for sensitive skin.
FDA-approved for use in patients 12 years and older. Safety in younger children has not been established.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.1%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid (naphthoic acid derivative) that selectively binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ) in the skin. It normalizes the differentiation of follicular keratinocytes, preventing the microcomedone formation that initiates acne. Considered the gold standard for OTC acne treatment.
- FDA Approval: Approved as prescription medication in 1996; granted OTC status in 2016, becoming the first new OTC acne active ingredient in 30+ years.
- Clinical Evidence: Meta-analyses of 5 RCTs show 0.1% adapalene matches tretinoin 0.025% efficacy with significantly better tolerability.
- Photostability: Remains chemically stable under UV light and oxygen exposure — unlike tretinoin, which degrades.
- Multi-action: Comedolytic, anti-inflammatory, and stimulates collagen — addresses both active acne and post-acne marks.
Carbomer (Homopolymer Type C) ~0.5%Proven
A high-molecular-weight cross-linked polymer of acrylic acid that converts the aqueous base into a smooth, clear, non-tacky gel. It provides the signature lightweight texture and ensures even application without skin penetration.
- Function: Gelling agent and viscosity modifier — typical concentration is below 1%.
- Safety: CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) panel deems carbomers safe for use in cosmetics; molecular size prevents skin absorption.
- Activation: Requires neutralization with sodium hydroxide to form the gel matrix.
Disodium EDTA ~0.1%Proven
A chelating agent that binds and deactivates trace metal ions (often introduced from purified water) which would otherwise destabilize the formula or reduce preservative efficacy.
- Function: Stabilizer that extends shelf life and protects product integrity.
- Safety profile: CIR-approved at typical use levels of 0.1–0.2%.
- Synergy: Boosts the antimicrobial activity of phenoxyethanol.
Phenoxyethanol ≤1%Proven
A globally accepted broad-spectrum preservative that protects the formula against bacteria, yeast, and mold. Used at safe concentrations regulated by the EU and FDA (≤1%).
- Function: Primary preservative — replaces traditional parabens in this formulation.
- pH stability: Effective across pH 3–10, ideal for varied skincare formulations.
- Heat stable: Withstands processing temperatures up to 85°C without degradation.
Poloxamer 182 ~1%Proven
A non-ionic block copolymer surfactant that helps solubilize the otherwise water-insoluble adapalene molecule, ensuring uniform dispersion throughout the gel and consistent dosing per application.
- Function: Solubilizer and dispersing agent for the active ingredient.
- Skin tolerance: Considered a gentle, low-irritation surfactant suitable for sensitive skin.
- Critical role: Without it, adapalene would not distribute evenly in the aqueous base.
Propylene Glycol ~5%Proven
A humectant and penetration enhancer that helps the adapalene molecule reach its target receptors in the follicular epithelium. Also adds a touch of skin-conditioning hydration to offset retinoid dryness.
- Function: Solvent, humectant, and penetration enhancer.
- Safety: Toxicology and cosmetic-science consensus deems it safe at standard cosmetic use levels.
- Note: May rarely cause sensitivity in highly reactive skin — the only ingredient flagged for allergen potential here.
Purified Water ~92%Proven
The aqueous base that makes up the bulk of the formula. As a clear gel, water carries all the actives and excipients to the skin in a lightweight, fast-absorbing vehicle that won't add greasiness.
- Function: Solvent and carrier — the largest component by volume.
- Quality: Pharmaceutical-grade purified water, free from contaminants and minerals.
Sodium Hydroxide traceProven
A pH adjuster used in trace amounts to neutralize the carbomer and bring the final gel to a skin-compatible pH (~5.0–6.5). Essential for gel formation and skin tolerance.
- Function: pH balancer and carbomer neutralizer.
- Safety: Fully reacted in the final formula — present in residual quantities only.
8 ingredients — one of the most minimalist formulations in skincare.
Adapalene 0.1%, Carbomer (Homopolymer Type C), Disodium EDTA (Edetate Disodium), Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 182, Propylene Glycol, Water (Purified), Sodium Hydroxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse only at night on fully dry skin. Apply before moisturizer, or sandwich between two layers of moisturizer if your skin is sensitive. Always use SPF 30+ during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash your face with a mild, non-stripping cleanser in the evening. Pat completely dry — applying retinoids to damp skin can increase irritation.
Wait 5–10 Minutes
Let your skin fully dry before application. This buffer step significantly reduces stinging and dryness.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense roughly a pea-sized amount for the entire face. Dot on forehead, both cheeks, nose, and chin, then spread in a thin, even layer. Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken skin.
Follow With Moisturizer
Wait 5–10 minutes, then apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration and minimize the dryness common with retinoids.
Start Slow
Begin with 2–3 nights per week for the first 2 weeks, then increase to every other night, and eventually nightly as tolerated. This gradual ramp-up minimizes the purge.
SPF Every Morning
Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable. Retinoids increase photosensitivity and unprotected sun exposure will reverse your progress.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with mild-to-moderate acne, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You want a clinically proven retinoid without a prescription
- You're starting your retinoid journey and want the gentlest option
- You're looking for affordable, no-frills, results-driven skincare
- You want to address acne and early signs of aging in one product
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) and need a safe formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne (see a dermatologist)
- You have eczema, rosacea, or compromised skin barrier
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You have very dry or extremely sensitive skin (try the cream version)
- You're already using prescription tretinoin or tazarotene
- You expect overnight results — patience is required
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel base absorbs quickly without adding shine. Regulates sebum and minimizes pore appearance over time.
Balances oily T-zone while clearing congestion. Pair with a hydrating moisturizer to support drier areas.
Gold-standard treatment for comedonal and inflammatory acne. Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe.
Effective preventative treatment. May cause initial dryness — buffer with moisturizer if needed.
Effective but expect noticeable dryness. Use the moisturizer-sandwich method and consider the cream formulation instead.
Gentlest of all topical retinoids. Patch test first, start with 2x/week, and buffer with moisturizer to minimize reactions.
Results timeline
12+ MONTHSAdjustment Phase
Skin adapts to the retinoid. You may experience mild dryness, slight peeling, and tightness — known as "retinization." Existing breakouts may persist.
~80% experience adjustmentThe Purge Phase
Accelerated cell turnover surfaces deep-seated comedones. Acne may appear to worsen temporarily before clearing. Stay consistent — this is the medication working.
~50% experience purgingVisible Clearing
Inflammatory lesions reduce significantly. Skin texture appears smoother, pores look refined, and post-acne dark spots begin to fade.
~70% notice improvementFull Transformation
Acne is largely controlled, hyperpigmentation has faded, and overall skin tone and texture are visibly improved. Continue use to maintain results.
~85% see major changeLong-Term Anti-Aging Benefits
Continued use stimulates collagen production, softens fine lines, and maintains clear skin. Considered safe for indefinite long-term use.
~90% maintain resultsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely effective for acne — backed by 25+ years of clinical research
- Best-tolerated topical retinoid available without a prescription
- Exceptionally clean, minimalist 8-ingredient formula
- One of the most affordable options vs. brand-name Differin
- Paraben-free, fragrance-free, oil-free, and fungal-acne safe
- Provides anti-aging benefits as a long-term bonus
- Lightweight gel absorbs fast and works under any moisturizer or SPF
- Photostable molecule retains potency longer than tretinoin
Criticized
- Long onset — significant results take 8–12 weeks of consistent use
- Initial purge and dryness can be discouraging for beginners
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Cannot be combined with other strong actives (AHA/BHA/Vitamin C) on the same night
- Requires diligent daily SPF use
- Tube packaging is less precise than a pump for measuring pea-sized doses
- May be too drying for very dry or barrier-compromised skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Virtually identical inactive ingredient list. Both contain the same 0.1% Adapalene, Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, EDTA, Poloxamer 182, Propylene Glycol, Water, and Sodium Hydroxide. PanOxyl uses Methylparaben as preservative instead of Phenoxyethanol — Taro is paraben-free.
The originator. Same 0.1% Adapalene active. Differin uses Carbomer 940 and may contain trace hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment, plus Methylparaben. Clinically equivalent at higher price point.
Same active strength and nearly identical inactive ingredients. Premium pricing reflects the La Roche-Posay brand and pharmacy positioning. Paraben-free and tested on sensitive skin.
Direct-to-consumer alternative with essentially the same ingredient list as Differin. Slightly larger pump packaging makes dosing easier. Strong value option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Adapalene is photostable but the formula's potency is best preserved within one year.
Store at controlled room temperature (68°–77°F / 20°–25°C). Protect from freezing and excessive heat. Keep tube tightly closed.
Aluminum/laminate squeeze tube — opaque to protect from light. Available in 15g (0.5 oz), 45g (1.6 oz), and 95g (3.2 oz, twin pack).
Yes — well under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Fragrance-free formula and compact tube make it ideal for travel and gym bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. As a topical retinoid, Adapalene is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to a theoretical risk of retinoid embryopathy (birth defects associated with the retinoid class). While systemic absorption is minimal and animal studies have not shown harm, dermatologists and the American Academy of Dermatology advise discontinuing all retinoids during pregnancy. Safer pregnancy-friendly alternatives include azelaic acid 10%, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide (in moderation).
Yes — completely fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. With only 8 ingredients (water, adapalene, carbomer, EDTA, phenoxyethanol, poloxamer 182, propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide), it's one of the cleanest formulations on the market for those battling pityrosporum folliculitis.
Adapalene is itself a retinoid, so do not layer it with retinol, retinaldehyde, or tretinoin — that's redundant and overly irritating. Avoid using vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs, or BHAs in the same routine, as this dramatically increases the risk of irritation, peeling, and barrier damage. Best practice: use vitamin C in the morning, Adapalene at night. If using AHAs/BHAs, alternate nights (e.g., Adapalene Mon/Wed/Fri, BHA Tue/Thu/Sat). Adapalene pairs safely with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and most moisturizers.
It excels for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — its lightweight gel base is non-greasy and won't clog pores. It works well on normal skin too. Dry and very sensitive skin types can still use it, but should expect more irritation and may prefer the cream version, or use the moisturizer-sandwich method (apply moisturizer first, then adapalene, then a second layer of moisturizer). It's safe for ages 12+ and effective on light to deep skin tones.
Patience is essential. Expect a 2–6 week adjustment period (dryness, peeling, possible purge), with visible clearing usually starting around week 8–12. Most users report significant improvement after 12 weeks of consistent nightly use, with full transformation around the 4–6 month mark. Continued use beyond 6 months delivers anti-aging benefits including smoother texture and reduced fine lines. Stop use too early and you'll miss the real benefits.
Use it at night only. Order: cleanser → (optional alcohol-free toner or hydrating essence) → wait 5–10 minutes for skin to be completely dry → pea-sized amount of Taro Adapalene Gel → wait 5 minutes → moisturizer → optional facial oil. In the morning: cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (mandatory). Never apply Adapalene to damp skin or in the morning.
No. Comedogenic rating is 0/5. Every ingredient in this 8-part formula is non-comedogenic, oil-free, and water-based. In fact, Adapalene actively works to unclog pores by normalizing the keratinization process inside the follicle, preventing the formation of microcomedones — the precursor to all acne lesions. It's one of the most pore-clearing ingredients available without a prescription.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store the tube at room temperature (68°–77°F / 20°–25°C), away from direct sunlight, and keep the cap tightly closed between uses. Adapalene is one of the more photostable retinoids, but the gel base will gradually lose efficacy after a year. With nightly use, a 45g tube typically lasts 3–4 months, so finishing within the PAO is easy.
Verdict: Taro Adapalene Gel 0.1% delivers prescription-strength acne-clearing power in a clean, paraben-free, fungal-acne-safe formula at one of the lowest price points on the market. It's a near-perfect dupe for Differin and La Roche-Posay's adapalene gels — same active ingredient, same clinical efficacy, often half the price. Patience through the 8–12 week ramp-up period is essential, but for anyone dealing with comedonal or inflammatory acne (and who isn't pregnant or breastfeeding), this is one of the highest-value, most evidence-backed treatments you can buy without a prescription. The minimalist 8-ingredient formulation makes it especially appealing for sensitive, fungal-acne-prone, and ingredient-conscious users.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 182
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|